Royal Veterinary College Study Challenges Designer Dog Perceptions
A comprehensive new study from the Royal Veterinary College has revealed that designer crossbreed dogs, including the popular cockapoo, exhibit significantly more undesirable behaviours than their purebred counterparts. The research, which analysed data from thousands of dog owners, suggests the widely marketed perception of these dogs as "easy" family pets may require serious reconsideration.
The Personal Experience: Living with a Cockapoo
Lydia Spencer-Elliott shares her experiences with her thirteen-year-old cockapoo Elvis, whose energetic and sometimes chaotic behaviour has been both a source of delight and frustration. "I think my cockapoo is the best dog in the whole world," she begins, "but his recent crimes have included stealing sandwiches from desks, consuming an entire Toblerone bar including the foil, and attempting to leap into the driver's seat while clipped into the back of the car."
From puppyhood, Elvis demonstrated extraordinary energy levels that challenged traditional training methods. During his first puppy class, he jumped into a water bowl twice his size and caught a ride on a much larger dog's back. Despite persistent training efforts, he has only mastered basic commands like "sit" and "stay" with considerable difficulty.
The Scientific Findings: Crossbreeds Versus Purebreds
The Royal Veterinary College research team analysed comprehensive data from 3,424 crossbreed and 5,978 purebred dogs collected through detailed owner questionnaires. The study focused on cockapoos, labradoodles, cavapoos, and their parent breeds including cocker spaniels, labrador retrievers, and poodles.
The findings revealed that cockapoos showed more undesirable behaviours than poodles in six distinct categories: owner-directed aggression, stranger-directed aggression, dog rivalry, separation-related issues, excitability, and non-social fear. Compared to cocker spaniels, cockapoos demonstrated higher levels of dog-directed aggression, stranger-directed fear, dog-directed fear, and poorer trainability.
Understanding the Behavioural Differences
Researchers suggest multiple factors contribute to these behavioural patterns in designer crossbreeds. Size appears to be a significant factor, with smaller dogs like those bred from miniature or toy poodles showing increased tendencies toward human-directed aggression. Previous studies have indicated small dogs are twice as likely to display such behaviours compared to larger breeds.
Irresponsible breeding practices also play a substantial role. New owners of designer crosses were significantly less likely to see their puppy with its mother on collection day, a red flag associated with illegal puppy sales and future behavioural problems. Additionally, designer-cross owners are far more likely to be first-time dog owners precisely because these breeds are marketed as "easy" pets, creating a cycle of inexperience and behavioural challenges.
Health Considerations and Behaviour
The study also identified health factors that may contribute to behavioural issues. Designer crosses showed increased likelihood of ear infections and skin disorders like atopic dermatitis, conditions that could make dogs more irritable and reactive. Pain or discomfort from such conditions naturally affects a dog's temperament and behaviour.
Louise Glazebrook, a dog behaviouralist and author, observes that "combo breeds such as cockapoos and cavapoos are high on my list for dogs I see with behavioural issues. As a society, we have totally lost touch with understanding our dogs' needs and instead are thinking only of our own."
Responsible Ownership and Realistic Expectations
Despite the study's findings, researchers emphasise that every dog is an individual, and home environment and training remain crucial factors in behaviour development. The myth of cockapoos as universally easy, child-friendly dogs requires re-evaluation, but this doesn't mean they cannot make wonderful companions for the right owners.
"When anyone takes on any dog breed or combo breed," Glazebrook advises, "there are lots of assessments that need to be made around suitability, happiness, and whether you can fulfil the needs of that dog."
For Spencer-Elliott and her mother, Elvis's chaotic nature has become an endearing part of their lives. "His chaotic nature makes us laugh," she reflects, "and we have the time, patience, and lifestyle for his quirks." Their experience demonstrates that with appropriate commitment and understanding, even the most energetic cockapoo can become a beloved family member.
The study ultimately highlights that dog ownership requires substantial responsibility regardless of breed. There exists no cheat code to an "easy" dog, and prospective owners must carefully consider their lifestyle, experience, and ability to meet a dog's needs before bringing any pet into their home.
